I started shooting Slayer in 1984…and in that time, I became close with the band. From sneaking my camera into the club shows to becoming a co-producer on the Soundtrack To The Apocalypse box set – it has been a great ride. But this one hit hard. At his celebration, every snap of my camera brought me closer and closer to the end of a big chapter in my life. I know Slayer will go on – in one form or another – but there is such a sense of unwanted closure. It is hard to put in words – so I am giving you a little taste of what Slayer gave me over the years. Thank you Tom, thank you Kerry, thank you Dave, thank you Paul and Jon…and lastly – thank you Jeff, and farewell.

Since 1983, Memorial Day Weekend held a special place in my heart when it came to Heavy Metal Music. It was on May 29, 1983 that I attended Heavy Metal Day at the US Festival in Devore, California. 300,000 dedicated metal fans came out that weekend to support what was important – Metal. Once again, Memorial Day Weekend holds a new place in my heart when it comes to Metal Music. Yesterday, May 30, 2010, thousands of dedicated metal fans came out to support what was important – the life of Ronnie James Dio.

I was one of the lucky ones that was able to attend and take part in this special farewell to one of the founding fathers of Metal. I was privileged to be able to document the entire Memorial Ceremony – the load-ins, the soundchecks, the arrivals, the fans, the music, the memories, and the tears.

It was a touching and tasteful service, led by Eddie Trunk. Ronnie’s life and musical talents were broken down and chronicled era by era, section by section, accompanied by live musical performances, video clips, and friends. Three and half hours was not nearly long enough to display the gifts and love that Ronnie gave to all of us throughout his life.

I hope you enjoy my slideshow…it is my gift to all of you. I am and always will be a fan and I am blessed to be able to make my living doing what I love. Rest In Peace Ronnie, your impact in music and your huge warm heart will never be forgotten.

P.S. Thanks Rob, for being by my side on both of these special Memorial Day Weekends!